Tampa Bay is located on the western coast of Florida, and with a population of 342,000, is the largest city in Hillsborough County. Ponce de Leon arrived in the area in 1513, but development was slow until 1845, when the region became a state. Major early industries included shipping and phosphate mining. In 1886, Vincent Martinez Ybor opened a cigar factory. As a result, the Ybor City neighborhood is a diverse, lively area reflecting Cuban and Spanish influences.
Visitors to Tampa Bay can find plenty to do. In addition to beach hopping, the area has several excellent museums. Family friendly activities include Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and Lowry Park Zoo. Orlando and Disney World are only 90 minutes away.
Several excellent hotels for beach lovers are located directly on the waters of Tampa Bay.
The Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay is a AAA four diamond hotel situated on a 35-acre wildlife preserve on Tampa Bay. The hotel boasts great views and a convenient location, close to restaurants and shopping. The hotel is two miles from the Tampa Bay airport. The 445 guest rooms are decorated in gold and burgundy and feature overstuffed chairs and work desks. The guest bathrooms feature granite countertops and floors. The hotel has a salon, florist, gift shop, and fitness center. In addition to the fitness center, guests enjoy two outdoor pools, tennis courts, whirlpool, massage, and yoga classes. Children, especially, enjoy watching wildlife as they walk the nature trail. The hotel has two restaurants: Armani's, featuring upscale Northern Italian food, and Oystercatcher's, offering great seafood and brunch.
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
2900 Bayport Dr.
Tampa Bay, Fl 33601
(813) 874-1234
www.grandtampabay.hyatt.com
The Doubletree Guest Suites are conveniently located on the water in the Rocky Point Business Center. Overlooking the bay and Old Tampa Bay Wildlife Preserve, the hotel is close to several area attractions including Busch Gardens, Adventure Island, and Lowry Park Zoo. The guest suites feature separate living areas and large bedrooms. Many have bay views. The hotel has a fitness center, gift shop, and business center. Galerie restaurant and lounge features indoor and outdoor seating. The hotel has meeting rooms and banquet space and is a great choice for parties and weddings.
Doubletree Guest Suites Tampa Bay
3050 N. Rocky Point Dr. W.
Tampa Bay, Fl 33607
(813) 888-8800
www.doubletree1.hilton.com
The Westin Harbour Island Hotel is located on a landscaped island near the Tampa Bay business district. Adjacent to the Tampa Bay Convention Center, the hotel's 299 rooms offer luxurious bedding, marble tiles and floors in the bath, and views of the harbor (king rooms). Guests relax at the hotel's fitness center and pool. Massage services are available. The hotel has a business center and offers free Internet access. Pets are allowed for a fee. The hotel has two restaurants: 725 South, featuring all-day casual, but elegant fare, and Market Place, a casual spot offering snacks, sandwiches, and Starbuck's Coffee.
Westin Harbour Island Hotel
725 S. Harbour Island Blvd.
Tampa Bay, Fl 33602
(813) 229-5000
www.starwoodhotels.com
